Winter Solstice: Lyn Verra-Lay
Holly Sprig
Description: Many cultures see holly as a symbol of heartiness during the colder months of the year, with their shiny, evergreen leaves. The bright red berries were sacred to the Druids and represented the fertility of the mother goddess. Having holly on your mantel symbolizes protection and hope for resilience through the winter, until we once again, see the sun.
Size: 11×3.5 inches
Medium: Pyrography and pastel on cedar board
The Deer Mother
Description: Deer have been prominent in my Yule décor for many years. When I was a child, I visited Santa and on the way outside, there were a number of live reindeer for viewing. I was fascinated by their strong calm and I think I felt a kind reverence even back then. This folk art piece in acrylic, gouache and ink on canvas, depicts The Deer Mother with her glorious antlers (only the females retain their antlers during the winter), surrounded by sprigs of mistletoe and holly. The Deer Mother symbolizes fertility, birth and sustenance from the time of the Winter Solstice and through the season’s cold, dark months. Mistletoe berries represent male and the holly berries, female, as if to surround and support The Deer Mother in her fruitfulness.
Size: 10×10 inches
Medium: Acrylic, gouache and ink on canvas
